New genetic test identifies hidden heart disease risk

Researchers at Lund University have evaluated a new genetic test, known as GPSMult, which can identify individuals with a high innate risk of heart attack or coronary artery disease, even in the absence of traditional risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, or smoking habits.

The test, developed by an international research group including the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Massachusetts General Hospital, uses a simple blood test to weigh approximately one million genetic risk variants. A study involving over 25,000 participants from the Malmö Kost Cancer population study found that the top fifth of individuals with the highest polygenic risk have a risk level comparable to those with type 2 diabetes or a history of stroke.

Professor Olle Melander of Lund University noted that these individuals often remain undetected by standard medical screenings. The test is expected to be available in healthcare settings around the turn of the year, potentially starting with health consultations for individuals aged 40 and older. Early detection could allow for preventative measures, such as lifestyle adjustments and cholesterol-lowering medications.